DIY Bridesmaid Updos by Aamir Naveed

Loose curls, poker straight, and beach waves are all good when it comes to hairdos, but sometimes an outfit just demands an updo. Your bestie’s cocktail, for instance. Or when you wish to flaunt the embellished neckline of your new gown. With the wedding season heavily upon us (when is it not?), we roped in celebrated hairstylist Aamir Naveed to work on some fabulous DIY tutorials for us—perfect for the bridesmaid on-the-go. Try it out, already!

LOOK 1: THE ELEGANT CHIGNON

This elegant updo is red carpet ready, perfect for a soft yet statement like look. Sport it for a wedding reception or cocktail party.

Step 1: Segregate a ear-to-ear section and tie a low ponytail in the nape of the neck, slightly to one side.

Step 2: Create gap at the root of the ponytail, and feed the ponytail through the gap.

Step 3: Tie another band two-to-three inches below the ponytail and create another gap, pulling the ponytail through. Repeat this as many times as you can to the bottom of the ponytail.

Step 4: Loosen the hair around each elastic band by teasing with your fingers.

Step 5: Pin the ponytail around into the nape of the neck, to form a textured chignon.

Step 6: Split the front section into two, braid the hair of the back section, loosen the braid, and pin it back around the bun.

Step 7: Twist the front section back, and tease it with your fingers to loosen it.

Step 8: Pin it back in place and incorporate any excess into the chignon. Pull out small strands around the face to create a softer look.

LOOK 2: THE HIGH UPDO

Dramatic yet soft, this look lends itself well to traditional as well as western wear. It’s as perfect for a sangeet as it is for a cocktail night.

Step 1: Segregate a ear-to-ear section and tie the rest of the hair into a high ponytail.

Step 2: Twist the ponytail, and loosen by teasing it with your fingers.

Step 3: Wrap it around and secure it into a top knot.

Step 4: Section of the sides closest to the ear on both sides of the front, leaving out small strands and pulling back the sides tightly. Secure it into the top knot.

Step 5: Back comb the front in sections.

Step 6: Shape the front and pin it back into the top knot securely.

Step 7: Twist the excess of the front sections and incorporate into the top knot.

Step 8: Using your fingers, tease the front section to create a rough finish and spray into place.